Vancouver Whitecaps goalkeeper Joe Cannon is continuing his recovery from a broken ankle sustained last summer.

The 36-year old has not played a competitive match since August 14 last year and is now hoping he can soon return to the field of play as the Whitecaps prepare for their first foray into Major League Soccer.

Cannon has not been speaking to the media for the last few months but explained that was simply to do with the fact he wanted to focus on his fitness.

"I'm trying to get back and it's just been a struggle," he said. "I just didn't have much to say and didn't want to keep repeating myself.

"I'll be honest, the fitness needs to be better. It's getting there but it's a work in progress.

"I'm reluctant to put any date on it because I don't want to feel like anything is a setback.

"Luckily we have good goalkeepers here so it's not going to be a huge issue."

And Cannon, who has extensive MLS experience playing with San Jose Earthquakes, Colorado Rapids and LA Galaxy, said it was refreshing to be at a club that wants to help him really get back to premium fitness levels.

"In other places, I might have been rushed back to play now but here they want me to take my time and that's good," Cannon added. "Everyone has been pretty understanding but we're coming close to a point where that understanding is going to start wearing thin."